Public Statements

Tipton Responds to NTIA Lifting Eagle-Net Suspension

Statement

Rep. Scott Tipton (R-CO) issued this statement following the announcement that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has lifted the suspension on Eagle-Net.

"I am committed to expanding broadband access in rural Colorado, but continue to have serious concerns about the operations of Eagle-Net. Those concerns include overbuilding in areas that already have high-speed fiber-optic lines installed by private providers; blowing through $100 million in taxpayer funds, and asking for another $10-$15 million to finish a revised network that is smaller than originally planned; and the fact that much needed projects in underserved areas on the Western Slope are last on Eagle-Net's list of priorities. My colleagues and I will continue to monitor this process and keep all options on the table to ensure the most effective use of taxpayer dollars while seeking to expand broadband service for rural America."--Rep. Scott Tipton

While committed to expanding broadband access in rural Colorado, Tipton has serious concerns about the operations of Eagle-Net. Last September Tipton and several of his Colorado colleagues sent a letter to NTIA Assistant Secretary Strickling voicing many of these concerns. Tipton has reiterated these concerns to the Assistant Secretary in two meetings this year, including during an April meeting.